Nigerians spent more than N50 billion on United States visa applications between 2023 and 2024 despite a significant decline in the number of visas issued during the period, according to data analysed from the US Department of State.
An Intelpoint report showed that 201,200 non-immigrant visas were granted to Nigerians over the two-year period. With the standard visa application fee set at $185 per applicant, Nigerians spent an estimated $37.2 million, equivalent to about N50.7 billion at an average exchange rate of N1,360 to the dollar.
The data revealed a 23 per cent drop in visa issuances, with approvals declining from 113,900 in 2023 to 87,300 in 2024, representing 26,600 fewer visas.
Business and tourism travel remained the most common reasons for approved visas in 2024, accounting for 83 per cent of total issuances under the B1/B2 category. Student visas (F1) made up about seven per cent, while exchange visitor visas (J1) and other temporary visa categories accounted for the remainder.
Despite the decline, Nigeria continued to rank among key source countries for the United States, contributing approximately 0.8 per cent of global non-immigrant visa issuances in 2024.
Former President of the National Association of Nigeria Travel Agencies, Susan Akporiaye, attributed the sustained demand for international travel to Nigerians’ strong culture of mobility rather than solely economic factors.
According to her, many Nigerians travel abroad for business, education, tourism and social events, while the majority eventually return home.
She argued that public perception often exaggerates the number of Nigerians who remain abroad permanently, noting that returnees far outnumber those who choose to stay.
The decline in visa approvals coincides with stricter immigration measures introduced by the United States following President Donald Trump’s return to office in January 2025.
In July 2025, the US government limited most non-immigrant and non-diplomatic visas issued to Nigerian citizens to single-entry permits valid for three months, although previously issued visas were not affected.
The following month, visa applicants were required to disclose all social media accounts used within the previous five years as part of the application process, with authorities warning that failure to comply could result in visa denial.
Additional restrictions were introduced in December 2025 when the US Mission in Nigeria announced expanded travel limitations affecting Nigeria and five other countries, effective January 1, 2026.
Akporiaye noted that while interest in travelling to the United States remains high, tighter visa rules and operational changes have made the process more challenging for applicants.
She added that reports of visa cancellations and deportations have also contributed to growing uncertainty among prospective travellers.
Travel consultant Maureen Chimaobi of Travel and Tours Limited said obtaining a US visa has become increasingly difficult, particularly for first-time applicants.
According to her, many Nigerians continue to pay application fees, book appointments and attend interviews, only to face rejection despite meeting basic requirements.
She observed that approval rates have declined significantly over the past year, especially among applicants with limited travel history.
The tougher visa environment, she said, is prompting more Nigerians to consider alternative destinations where approval prospects are perceived to be higher.
Chimaobi identified the United Kingdom as one of the countries still offering relatively favourable approval chances for applicants with strong financial records and proper documentation. However, she noted that British authorities have also tightened their screening processes.
She further stated that countries within the Schengen area, including France, have become increasingly selective, particularly toward first-time travellers.
Industry experts say the trend highlights the growing challenges faced by Nigerian travellers seeking entry into major Western destinations, even as demand for international travel remains robust.
